Environmentally Savvy Tips for Your Home

Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle

to save money in your home

This month I am sharing some easy but impactful ways you can reduce, reuse and recycle to save money around your home. Some of these ideas can be done right away, such as checking for water leaks and switching to energy-efficient lightbulbs. Other ideas, such as a home energy audit, may take a bit longer to execute but will save you even more in the long run.

I also have some great ideas on how to recycle and repurpose common items you no longer want. Plus, I share practical and creative tips to save money on groceries while also reducing food waste.

Please be sure to reach out to me if you need help finding a professional for any of your home maintenance needs. And remember, I am always happy to answer your questions regarding any real estate matters.

Reduce Energy Costs

Do a home-energy audit
Opt for ENERGY STAR appliances
Switch to energy-efficient LED lightbulbs
Wash clothes using cold water
Use programmable thermostat
Run dishwashers, washers, and dryers at night
Seal air leaks in windows, doors, and attic ceilings
Fix faucet and showerhead leaks
Unplug appliances when not in use.

A showerhead that leaks 10 drips per minute can waste more than 500 gallons of water a year!

Recycle Items

Reuse condiment jars for storage
Reuse cereal box liner bags to store, marinate or mix ingredients
Start seeds using old egg cartons
Cut up old t-shirts for rags
Donate items to your favorite charity or Facebook groups, Nextdoor or Freecycle

Alternate to Grass

Using an alternative to grass, such as mulch or rocks, reduces water consumption and runoff from fertilizer and pesticides.

Save Money

in the Kitchen

Buy from a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farm or a local farmers market.
Purchase only what you need for a day or two when grocery shopping.
Use leftover scraps for soup bases.
Freeze leftover herbs with olive oil.
Compost food scraps, paper towels, cooked rice and cooked pasta.
Switch to reusable coffee filters.
Instead of tea bags, try tea crystals or use loose-leaf tea and a tea infuser.

It is estimated that the average American family of four spends $1600 on food that gets thrown out each year.